Presidential Debate Drinking Game

I am honestly concerned about the upcoming election. I am taking the entire thing seriously. I will vote and am encouraging EVERYONE I know to vote. And, actually, I don't even care who you vote for, just vote!!!! So even though I care about who our next president is, the debates get a little boring, a little repeative, and a little silly...So, with all that said....................

Heather and I are sitting here right now watching the 2nd Presidential Debate. And we are playing a drinking game......what are we drinking on? I'm glad you asked.....

1) Every time McCain says "my friends." I think we've taken about 25 drinks on that one alone

2) Anytime Tom Brokaw reminds either candidate about the time limit

3) Name dropping.

4) When either candidate says something stupid (or, in one case so far, when one audience member asked a dumb question!). Examples: "I might need hair transplants soon," McCain. "That was a good question," Obama ('cuz what? On national TV he's gonna say "What a stupid question?!?!).

We were going to drink when they talked about the economy/money/finance issues, but we don't have enough alcohol in the house for that!

Just thought I would share some of my fun with you all! :-)

Books!

About a month ago I realized that I wasn't reading as much as I like to....crazy, I know! Those of you who know me, know that I read all the time so me not reading, kinda strange! I just have had soooooooooo much to do, that the reading was falling off. So the last month I've been trying to read more. Here are some of the books that I've been reading with a quick review of them.....Have you read any of these? What did you think about them? Any suggestions on other books I should read? Let me know!!!

The Kite Runner by Khaled Hosseini
I know that this was a huge bestseller a while ago, but I just got around to reading it. I loved it! It's a story about growing up, letting go, learning to deal with the truth, and keeping promises to friends. To me, a lot of the story is depressing (I cried!), but ends with a message of hope. It is set mostly in Afgahastan and much of the story contains flashbacks. I liked the writing and the story. I liked it so much, as soon as I finished it, I went to the school library and checked out Hosseini's second novel. Also, I know there is a movie version, but I haven't rented it yet....I'm going to though.

A Thousand Splendid Suns by Khaled Hosseini
Yes, this novel is by the same author of The Kite Runner, and while the setting is very similar (Afganhastan 1970's - 2000's), the characters and the story are not. This story has two females as the main characters and it is their constant struggle to survive in an often harsh, male dominated society, while doing whatever they can to take care of their families. This story was a little more predictable than Kite Runner, but I still really enojoyed it.

Water for Elephants by Sara Gruen
Jacob is old and lives in a nursing home. When he realizes that the circus has come to town and is setting up the Big Top right down the street, a series of flashbacks about his early life as a member of a not-so-successful circus ensues. This wasn't my favorite novel (partly 'cuz I didn't like the ending that much...), but it was a good, quick read. Part of it is a little predictable, but overall the story flows well and I kept wanting to read 'just a little bit more' so I could find out what happens to Jacob, Rosie, Marlena, August, and the rest of the circus performers.


These is my Words by Nancy Turner
The subtitle for this novel is "The Diary of Sarah Agnes Prine." The novel is set up just that way, as a diary. It starts with Sarah and her family leaving the Arizona territory to head for Texas. Along the way, tragedy appears and the family soon turns around and heads back to Arizona. They settle outside of Tucson and the rest of the diary entires include Sarah growing up, getting married, having children, and dealing with many of the early frontier day-to-day dramas. There is a whole entry about a serious monsoon that causes swarms of frogs and snakes to come up onto her front porch and try to get into the house!!! I really liked this historical fiction novel and the strong, independent Sarah....until the end. As the story draws to a close, Sarah becomes very infrequent at her writing. This by itself is not a problem. The problem comes when Turner (the author) decides to set up important events in Sarah's life by having her suddenly write in her diary for two days about nothing, and then on the 3rd day, a child is born, someone dies, etc. and then again, no writing for many months. Even with this issue, I truly did like the story and am waiting for the second section of Sarah's story to arrive via Amazon.

Change of Heart by Jodi Picoult
I love Jodi Picoult as a writer. If you haven't yet read anything by her, you seriously should...start with My Sister's Keeper though! Anyway...Change of Heart is probably one of my new favorite novels by Picoult. Her novels are always told from more than one point of view and the stories all intertwin. This one is all about a man named Shay, who is on death row for murder. There are several twists throughout the story and while you want to hate Shay for what he has done, you grow to like him. This story does have a bit of a religious twist (people believe that Shay is performing miracles while in jail and he starts to get national coverage for this, which causes a whole subplot to emerge...) but the religious side of the story is minor compared to the human nature/family issues side. Another great novel by Picoult....I'm gonna start another one by her this weekend! I'm excited!

Hebrews 11:1

"Now faith is the assurance of things hoped for, the conviction of things not seen."

This is my new favorite Bible verse. It was in one of the lessons from church today and as I was sitting in church with my family, listening to the guy read this verse, I kept thinking to myself how much I love going to church. I love our great band and singing along with our awesome songs. I love P.T. (Pastor Thompson) and his totally relevent sermons. And I love sitting in church with my whole family!

So...in other words, I'm going to try to quit being selfish on Sunday mornings. I'm going to try really hard to get my lazy butt up out of bed to go to church so I can enjoy it even more!

Update

It's been awhile since I've done this so...........

*School is good. It's going very quickly and I can't believe that we did progress reports for 1st quarter already. I like my kids; they are great. The student teacher thing....it's a learning experience and honestly is making me a better teacher. It's not bad, honest. The whole situation is just different than what I thought it was going to be and not teaching "my kids" takes some getting used to. Oh, and I love teaching mythology!!! Seriously - my favorite class!!!!

*My shoulder is so fantastic I can not even put it into words. The pain that I had before the surgery is GONE!!! G-O-N-E!!!! I'm at 10 weeks since the surgery and am at about 80-85% recovered. I'm still weak in that arm, but the strength is coming back slowly. My range of motion is also about 85%. That all is awesome and I am not complaining, but the problem is that getting back that last 15-20% will probably take another 4-6 months. Crazy, huh?

*The friend situation....it's funny to me how the Lord provides when you need things. Crazy stuff has happened since the end of school last year and some people I haven't been in touch with in FOR-EV-ER are now back in my life, while other friends are drifting away. And there are new friends! YAY! It's a weird thing because part of me misses the "old ways" and another part of me is so totally glad that things have changed.....weird how that works.

*My family........in case you all don't know, I love my family!!! I had a great summer and spent tons of time with Callie so having her back in Tucson is tough but she's kicking ass down there! My mom has been so helpful with all sorts of stuff - my shoulder and the teaching abroad stuff just to name a few things. And of course, Heather.....seriously, her moving in with me had to be one of the absolute best things to happen in my life!!! We have so much fun and we get along amazingly well! The rest of my family is great too....don't be hurt if I didn't mention you! :-)

*And last, for those of you who don't know, I'm working on getting hired to teach abroad next year. This is something I've thought about for a few years and I've come to the conclusion that I really just need to do it!!! And so that's what I'm doing. I still am in the "planning" stages....working on getting all the info/stuff I need (transcripts, letters of rec, proof of certificates, etc.), improving my resumes, filling out applications....etc. My goal is to be working somewhere in Europe because Europe is so "small" and on long weekends I would be able to jump on a train and go see other countries. However, I really want to do this and would take a job anywhere. So if you don't mind, help me out and say a prayer for me that this works out! Then get your passport and come visit me!!!!

Summer is quickly drawing to a close....

I will totally admit to being lame, but I am excited to go back to school, and no, not just for the paycheck. I really want to get back into a routine, see the kids, hang out with my friends..... I am NOT excited about the work, grading papers, the meetings....

This year is going to be so different, I just know it. First, it's my 4th year at Skyline, which honestly seems unbelievable. I literally cannot believe I've been teaching for 8 years!!!!!!!!! Anyway, 'cuz it's my 4th year, all the kids who were my first class graduated and are gone. So while there are a lot of kids still at SHS who I totally like and think are awesome, it just isn't the same as that group of kids I started with.

B) and maybe the biggest thing, is that I have a student teacher this year. We just had a meeting today to start planning things and I think she's gonna do a good job. Her name is Tami and she subbed all of last year while going to school at The University of Phoenix at night and online. I really think that having her in my classroom is going to help make me a better teacher. Oh, don't get me wrong, I'm good (or I wouldn't've gotten her in the first place), but this is gonna help me. I am concerned about giving up control of my classroom, of my kids. You all know that I am a super laid back, go-with-flow kinda teacher, but the thought of someone else actually teaching my kids.....kinda scares me! LOl

And thirdly, things happened during this summer that changed me. There was family stuff and friend stuff, and while the details are not important, the outcomes are. I am different. The things that I want now, that I am looking forward to, are totally different than they were 8 weeks ago. I won't lie. I'm a little.....IDK, anxious I guess (scared is too strong a word here) to start the school year. But I am also hopeful, always hopeful....

So the downhill slide begins....this time next week I'll be back at school for sophomore orientation. This time in two weeks I'll be tired of back to school meetings. This time in three weeks I'll be exhausted and my throat will be killing me from all the talking and explainging and syllabus-going-over. OMG!!!! I so am not ready for all of this!!!!!!!!!!!!! LOL But, whether I'm ready or not, here comes year 8 of my teaching.....

I take it personally....

I know that I shouldn't take things so hard, but I do......it's lame, but whatever......it's totally me. So what's the latest thing that has kinda hurt my feelings? People not returning phone calls!

Here's the deal: I called a few people over the last few days. And only 1 person called me back. I know that people are busy, have lives, may not have their phone with them at all hours, etc. I get that! Honest. And folks, I don't expect a phone call back immediately, but you can't pick up the phone to call me at all??? In the last 24-48 hours you have not had two minutes to call me???? You see on your caller ID that it was me, you listen to the message, then what????? You think to yourself, "eh....just Katie.....no need to call her back." 'Cuz that's kinda what it seems like to me. I am not important enough or we aren't really friends or you have too much to do.......whatever the deal is, it all boils down to the same thing.........

You don't want to talk to me.

So how do I take that? I don't know. I don't get it. Maybe I am just a better friend. Or maybe I am a total and complete loser because honestly, if any of you who have not returned my call, called me....I would call you back. Even if I didn't really want to chat, I would call out of common courtesy or respect or decency or simple friendship. I don't know what this situation says about you.....or about me, for that matter, as people. What I do know is that right now.....I'm sad.

Summer Vacation started today.....

It's weird.....'cuz while I am totally happy to not have to get up early, grade papers, deal with drama (or bitch co-workers), go to bed early....in general, not work for a few months (which means no money, btw), I am also depressed. I don't like when my routine changes, so that's part of it. And at school I see my friends.....outside of work, not so much. Oh, don't get me wrong.....a) I have friends besides my "work friends" and b) I will continue to see my "work friends".............but it just is not the same. Also, I'm weirdly depressed about "my kids" graduating....I am happy for them and I know that they are going to go out into the world and do amazing things (most of them) but it is just kinda weird to think that they aren't going to be around next year. Also, did I mention the no money thing? Yeah...that's totally depressing me. And I'm depressed about the sad, pathetic fact that I have no plans for the summer.

Whatever.....

Maybe some pie will make me feel better........or beer...........or Tequila.

States I've Visited (thanks Becca)

create your own visited states map
or check out these Google Hacks.

The craziest lunch....

So.....my lunch crew is awesome. Seriously. Love 'em all to death. And we have some totally fantastic lunches! Sometimes they are just hilariously funny and I laugh and laugh and laugh until tears are pouring out ("but I'm fiddlin'!")! Other times...strange things happen (seriously...who knew that grown, mature adults had jello fights?). But last Thursday's lunch....well, it's in a category all by itself.............the conversation went like this.....



Becca: I'm tired of my hair being all the same length. I wish I had some bangs.
Gabbi: I could do it for you.
Becca: Really?
Gabbi: Yep...used to do my own all the time.
Becca: Okay.


At which point Gabbi picked up the scissors that were on Becca's desk and started the haircut.










I swear, honest to goodness, no lying, that is what happened........Literally, including the haircut, I do not think the entire thing took more than 3 minutes. Why, of all days, I randomly had my camera with me, I do not know, but I'm glad I did! Proof of the craziness!!!!






Here is the deal.....I trust my friends a lot.......I think I would probably trust them with my life, actually, but would I trust them to cut my hair?!?!?! I do not know. :-)

it's been awhile.........

I know...........I have been an AWFUL blogger!!! And I really do have stuff to blog about....it's just that things have been crazy-hectic in my life lately and when I am at home, I don't want to do anything except sleep! Anyway, one of my goals for this weekend is to get a post or two up! I'm really going to try!!! :-)

Working Harder...

I love my job. Teaching is awesome!!! I say this often and I really think that sometimes people do not believe me. I really and truly think I have a fantastic job and I cannot imagine myself doing anything else.

However, lately I have been..........well..............lazy.

I find myself doing a half-ass job at lessons and grading and other school related stuff.....I'm not really doing everything I can to reach my students or to make what I'm teaching interesting and relevant to them. Which for me, personally, is totally fine but the problem is that I am doing a disservice to/for the kids I am teaching. And since I got into teaching for the kids, well....that makes my laziness NOT fine for me or my students or my school or my district or my state or the future! :-)

Please do not get me wrong.....I am doing an okay job (and sadly, my okayness is better than lots of other teachers....I am a good teacher....). But I am not sure why, for the past few months, I have been fine with the 'okay' part. If my doctor or dentist or tax accountant did an 'okay' job, would I be alright with that? Hell no! This morning I was talking with another one of my teacher friends and as we were talking I realized that I have got to get my act together. Why continue to be just 'okay' or just 'good?' Why continue to be content with average? See, my friend is a great teacher...the kids know it, other teachers know it, adminstration knows it, everyone knows she is a great teacher. And all those same people know that I am a good teacher...should I be fine with that? Am I fine with that?

Not anymore.

So get ready, 'cuz I'm going to start working towards greatness.

And once I get there, I'll be hard to live with.

:-)

Too bad it's over....

One of the SWEET parts of my job is that I still get a spring break! Wahoo!!!! Sadly, this year's spring break is at an end...I'm not gonna lie to you, I'm sad! So as a way to remember the break of '08 I thought I would post a blog about it. In order to do the break justice, it's gonna have two parts: what I didn't do and what I did do...I know you're excited...you don't have to lie! And I'm not gonna lie to you either.....

this one is gonna be long! :-) :-)

Top 10 Things I Did Not Do During Spring Break of '08

*****a quick disclaimer....these are in no particular order & just 'cuz I'm listing them doesn't mean they are 'bad' or that I'm upset............

I just didn't do this stuff!*****

1) I didn't make it to San Diego.
Heading in to spring break, that was the plan...but things change, people get sick, life gets in the way. And so we didn't go to S.D. Honestly, at first I was not happy. I wasn't really mad, I just really wanted to go to San Diego! But the unhappiness did not last long and truly my spring break was nice with nothing really to do....it was awesomely relaxing!

2) I didn't go to any movies even though I tried...
Here's the thing.....I haven't been to an actual movie at an actual theater in.....um.....FOREVER!!!! And I thought spring break would be a great time to go. So even though people kept telling me things like "I totally want to see that movie too!" or "yeah, we should go to the movies" or "let's see _______________ (fill in the blank with a movie of your choice) 'cuz it's supposed to be really good!" when it actually came time to go to the movies......no one wanted to go or no one could go or no one would go or whatever. So I still haven't been to the movies in FOR-EV-ER!!!

3) I didn't make it to Disneyland.
After learning that my San Diego trip wasn't happening, my sister Callie called and said, "Hey....you wanna go to Disneyland?" To which I replied, "Heck yeah!!!" I love, love, LOVE Disneyland and literally could go all the time so when Callie and I were talking at 10pm about leaving early the next morning, this was not really a problem for me. The problem did come when Callie and I talked about how poor we were and how we really needed at least one more person to go with us to split the cost of the hotel and gas. I think between the two of us we called at least 20 people.....no one could go. Everybody had legit reasons, but it totally sucked that we couldn't find anyone to go with us!!!! We gave up on the trip this week, but we are planning one for the near future.....I'm excited. I love Disney!!! :-)
4) I didn't go out on another date with John.
I posted a blog about my first "date" with him....and thought I would give the guy another chance.....I'm not really sure what I was thinking 'cuz I didn't really want to pay for myself again, nor did I want to hear all about his ex. So after talking with my friends and my cousin, I realized it would've been stupid, lame, and a little demeaning....so I canceled, which means I'm still looking for a husband! Hook me up! :-)

5) I didn't go to the gym.
I'm lazy. That really is the ONLY reason why I did not even one time go to workout. Now, of course, I'm annoyed with myself because I was doing so well there for awhile and going just about every other day, but I will get back into the swing of things. I will be going back to the gym....yay.
6) I didn't go to Germany, Austria, France, Vegas, or Rocky Point.
All places I've been on my last 5 spring breaks....oh well, I guess every break can't be an adventure or a vacation or awesome experience of a lifetime...... But I'm not gonna lie, I sure would love to be in Normandy or Salzburg or Paris again........sigh......like I was last year..........sigh............

7) I didn't grade the papers & tests I brought home with me.
I know, I know, I know....can you even believe I brought them home at all?!?!?!

8) I didn't establish a new favorite flavor of Tropical Smoothie.

Tropical Smoothie has to be one of the best places in the world! I love it! My favorite flavor is Sunny Day. I never order anything else. But it occurred to me that maybe I should broaden my horizons and try something new, I mean who knows? Maybe another flavor is better, right? Wrong. I did indeed try several other flavors over the last week...5 that I can think of but maybe there were more....dang.....who knew I was going to T.S. that much?!?!?!? {But thanks to ALL my girls for going with me! :-)} Anyway....I tried to broaden my horizons, but when I go to T.S. on Monday (yep, we already have plans for the next trip) I will be getting a delicious, yummy, amazing Sunny Day.

9) I didn't get a new tattoo.
People were soooooooooooooo right when they said tattoos were addicting. Really....they are and I can't wait to get another one! So why didn't I? Well there are only two reasons..........1) I cannot decide what exactly I want to get....I have a few ideas, but nothing that I look at and think "that's the one I want!" and 2) I cannot decide where to get it.......you know I have that balance thing I have to keep in mind (one on the right, one on the left as of today!) so I really don't know where to put the 3rd tatt......... So, I'm open for suggestions. Let me know what you think I should get and where you think I should get it...seriously.
10) I didn't get invited to the party.
What can I say???? How about......."I'll forgive but I won't forget." Or maybe "Karma is a b-i-t-c-h!!!" Or what about "I thought we were friends?" "Not a big deal...whatever...." sounds good too. And so does "I understand why....just wish you would have had the guts to say it to my face." Perhaps it's my fault and I should ask "What did I do that caused me to get moved out of the 'cool group?" Lots of things running through my mind, lots of excuses and arguments and reasons why......Let's be honest though, shall we? What will I really say to you when I see you? Nothing. And what will you say to me when you see me? Nothing. Wait....what's that???? Am I bitter or angry? Nope. Am I hurt? Yeah...I am...more than you will ever know.

Top 10 Things I Did Do During Spring Break of '08

*****a quick disclaimer...these are in no particular order....just random stuff I did*****

1) I did have a great lunch at Olive Garden, where I ate killer food!
Lunch was great, even though mine had onions in it, 'cuz I love hangin' out with Becca and Marta. We always laugh a ton and they are so awesome and positive and cool...I love 'em! But yes, my lunch had a crapload of onions in it...I should've just sent it back like Becca told me to, but I feel bad when I do that 'cuz I feel like it's complaining and my co-dependency issues kick in and I worry that the people will be mad at me and I worry they will spit in my food...so I don't send stuff back....even when it has the potential to kill me! :-)
2) I did catch up on my reading.
So I read a lot....really....I love reading! And I tend to start books and then leave them in a stack by my bed. So when spring break started, I made a promise to myself that I would finish some of the books taking up space by my night stand. I finished 7 of them (don't worry, there are still tons more there!). And while the goal was to make the stack smaller....well....um....I actually started 3 new ones (but I'll finish one of those in a few minutes when I go to bed!). The point to this.......I did accomplish a goal and finish some of my books! YAY!
3) I did drink a beer or two (dozen)........and some wine....plus a shot or two....did I mention the champagne?
I know what you're thinking...."Dang, Katie might have a problem...." but I promise you that I didn't drink all of that in one night! That would be craziness! Okay....but honestly, I normally don't drink that much in the course of one week. Really. It just happened that my cousin was home (yep...I'm totally blaming her!) and her work week was crazy and me, well I was bored and depressed so........why not drink?!?! LOL But you guys know me....I love (LOVE!!!) Bud Light and so I had a couple of those. I'm on a new wine kick....Chardonnay is yummy! The shots happened accidentally and the champagne...well, that's just 'cuz I was craving some Red Bull & champagne....who knew it was sooooooooooo dang tasty when you mixed 'em?!?!? :-)
4) I did watch TV...just a little bit............
Um........okay, I promised you I wouldn't lie......I watched more than a little bit..........

5) I did remember how much I friggin' LOVED Nutella!!!!! So good.
If you don't know what Nutella is then you are lame. Nutella is "the original creamy, chocolaty hazelnut spread." I had it one time many years ago at a friend's house but kinda forgot about it until last year in France. While in France, my favorite way to eat a crepe was with Nutella and bananas...so dang delicious! Then I came home and bought some Nutella, which I realized is fantastic all by itself...but after awhile I stopped buying it (it's kinda expensive!). However, for some random reason the Friday school got out when I was at the grocery store I bought some more.....it is fantastic....I am not even gonna tell you how much I've eaten over the break! But I will tell you that I'm going to save this blog right now and go have some!!!! :-)
6) I did sleep in every day during the week!
If you don't know me, let me tell you this little fact......I LOVE to sleep in. Seriously....there is something about sleeping and sleeping and sleeping that is so awesome to me! I love it. I can wake up, look at the clock, get up and get something to eat or drink, go to the bathroom, talk on the phone....whatever....and then roll over and go back to sleep. It's an awesome talent of mine! LOL I think this week's winning time was 12:47. Yep.......... Wednesday I slept until after lunch!

7) I did ice my shoulder a ton!
For those of you who don't know, something is wrong with my right shoulder.....I'm in the process of doctor visits, MRIs, ultrasounds, etc.....and it looks like a problem with my rotator cuff and upper bicep.....both things that are not good and will require surgery to fix. But I'm not a fan of doctors and don't really want to to have surgery so I keep putting stuff off....which is lame 'cuz I'm in pain and I keep doing stupid stuff that bothers my shoulder and makes it worse. Anyway, between stuff that I did Sat, Sun, and Mon, well....I've been pretty much in serious, constant pain. I have drugs (Codine + generic Vicadin), but it makes me GROGGY, so I only take 'em at night before bed. So during the day, the option is......ICE!!! Actually, ice sucks....I use frozen peas.
8) I did spend quality time with the fam........
So Callie was home from U of A on her spring break as well. I love when she's home!!! Even though I don't see her a ton while she's here, it just is nice to have her close! :-) Anyway, we all hung out the first weekend she was home. Mom made some fantastic lasgna & garlic bread (I love bread!). And then of course we all were together for Easter as well. I love when everyone goes to church together 'cuz it's like when we were little....in fact, Mom still feels the need to remind us girls to "listen!".....which we do, she just thinks we're not.....Easter brunch included all the grandparents, my aunt & uncle, and my cousin so it's fun when we all get together. The food was so yummy! Unfortunately, Sunday ended with my parents having to take Callie back down to school....it's cool though 'cuz her finals are the beginning of May so she'll be home for the summer in like 5 - 6 weeks!

9) I did inhale some paint fumes.........
I was lucky enough to play 'nanny/au-pair' for Becca and Joe while they were painting. It probably was the best day of the whole break (no offense to anyone else!). I literally was able to hang out all day with Keane, who just happens to be my favorite kid in the entire world! Keane and I played, ate some great food, worked on our crawling....mostly just hung out! It was awesome.

10) I did have an awesome spring break!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Yay for being a teacher and getting a week off in the middle of the year! Even though this year's break wasn't exactly what I was hoping for, it still was fun! I was able to hang out with the people I love the most. I caught up with some old friends (thank goodness for free long distance and cell phone chargers!). But mostly I totally relaxed and enjoyed doing nothing. I think that now I can make it through these last few crazy months of school! In fact, I think I'm actually a little excited to get back into the swing of things....don't think it will last, but for now........I'm ready!

Spring Break '08!!! Wahoo!!!!!

Typing

I stole this from becca. :-) when i finished the first 'page' i just sat there for like 2 or 3 seconds....i thought i was done! oh no....i had to hit enter (or spacebar i learned later!).....but fun to know how awesome i am! LOL LOL LOL


70 words

http://speedtest.10-fast-fingers.com">Speed test

quick blog

so i changed my layout (in case you didn't know) and now all the stuff i had on it from before is gone! i had pics on the side....links to other people's blogs (becca's and souto's)....some favorite lists....some quotes.....and now it's all gone!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! and i don't want to re-do it all 'cuz i am too lazy and i spent time on it before and now i'm annoyed! becca....can you redo it for me?!?!?! Please!!!!!!!!!!!!!! :-)

This is Jeopardy!

I have always been a fan of the show. I mean, let's face it...it is the ultimate trivia show. When I feel like I want to prove how smart I am, I just watch Jeopardy. Okay, so the show often proves to me just how smart I am NOT, but sometimes I get a question or two right! So anyway, recently two things have made Jeopardy even better. First.......DVR!!!! This means that I never miss an episode (and can fast forward the commercials so an entire episode really is only like 18 minutes!!!) and being able to watch the returning champ each day....it's awesome! Second, and most important, is the fact that my cousin/roommate, Heather, also loves the show! So we watch it together...it has become a weekday ritual for us. Sometimes we are cheering for the returning champ to lose....or we cheer for people 'cuz we like their names or where they are from.....But mostly we watch it 'cuz we are geniuses. You are laughing....I know you are, but it's okay because Jeopardy is awesome!!!!!!!!!

"This is Jeopardy!" That's what the announcer guy is saying right at this moment! And yep...this is the view from my couch!

So this is one of the categories from yesterdays show....notice the quotations around 'au,' well, you know what that means! Actually, these quote categories are in every episode at least once or twice and I hate them...not because I suck at the category (oh no! I actually am pretty dang good at these!), but I'm not a fan of the quote categories because Alex Trebek says the lamest stuff when these appear! And it really and truly, almost always, sounds something like "notice the quotations....you know what those mean!" It's annoying. Seriously.

AAHHHH.......the Daily Doubles. First, let me admit to the fact that Heather and I are a little lame. When the Daily Double pops up, we have this little sound we make (good thing this site doesn't have sound or you would have to listen to me right now! LOL). Second, I tend to give awesome advice to contestants like "bet it all, stupid!" or I give great answers like "what is I have no idea what-so-ever and this is the lamest category ever?" That's never been an answer though.

So 'member how I said earlier that mostly Heather and I do okay at Jeopardy? Well there are a few categories where we tend to totally suck. Presidents would be one of them....so Heather bought this awesome book. We read it....sometimes....but I am not sure if it has helped us yet.

The other category we suck at is geography (okay, so we also stink at the Bible categories and often the science categories too, unless it's anatomy stuff 'cuz Heather totally rocks that!). Anyway....geography sucks! So...yep, you guessed it! Heather bought us a map...only it was supposed to be a world map. It's not. But we look at it. Sometimes. I can tell you where the Yukon River is now! Didn't know that before the map! And we know a whole lot about Oklahoma too!!! LOL Yah for maps!

Anyway...because Jeopardy is such a huge part of my life, I just felt the need to share it with you.

Spring Break '08

Okay....so my spring break so far has been great! I have been totally and completely 100% lazy. And it has been fantastic! I'm posting this to let everyone know (okay, to let Becca know) that I am going to post this week....I promise....I have a couple of things in mind, plus some awesome pics of my day of being an au-pair (yay Keane!) but right now I am loving the fact that I can lay on the couch in my pajamas, read a book (or 4 so far this break!), watch stupid shows on TV, drink Mountain Dew, and randomly check out mySpace. I admit, I was sad that I wasn't going to San Diego or Disneyland, but honestly....this has been an okay spring break....can only get better from here, right? Oh - commercial is over....back to the couch I go! :-)

Why I don't date......

I met this guy (let's just call the guy John....oh, wait.....his name is John!). John works with my cousin, Heather, and he gets my phone number from her and calls me, we chat, he asks me out. I'm kinda nervous to go, but mostly excited 'cuz let's be honest, it's been FOREVER since I've been on a real date.

We go to P.F. Chang's and before I go on to say the......um......strange parts of the date, let me say this...honestly, John was very nice. He's cute, has an okay body, nice eyes. He was funny, friendly, seems fairly smart, motivated....and mostly I had an okay time. There were just a few things that made me think to myself, "here is why I am still single...."

First, before we have even ordered (so we're talking less than 5 minutes into the date), John tells me that.....a) I look like his ex-girlfriend, b) the house that he is living in right now he and his ex purchased together and her name is still on the mortgage, and c) if it had been his decision he would have married the ex and would be married right now (she didn't want to get married). Now literally, while he is telling me all this I am thinking to myself, "If things don't change in the next 5 minutes I am OUT of here!" But, things do change and for the rest of dinner he mostly does not bring up his ex.

Then the bill comes. Our waitress sets down the bill in that leather foldy-thing and John picks it up, looks at it for like 15-20 seconds and then says to me, "So your half of the bill is................" and he tells me how much I owe!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! My jaw dropped and all I could do was stare at the guy! I swear, I sat there for about 10 seconds with my mouth hanging wide open and could not for the life of me think of a single word to say. I finally stutter out something like, "Okay.....well......um.......I'll have to put it on my credit card....." I mean seriously people, I was shocked!!!! John asked ME out! If I had asked him, I would pay for the whole thing! And in my mind, especially on a first date, it means he should pay! The rest of the date (less than 20 minutes by the time we paid and he very politely walked me to my car!) was kinda strained mostly due to my serious shock of having to pay for my dinner. And, while I'm rambling, let me say that if I had known I was going to pay I would not have been okay with P.F. Chang's, I would not have had wine (he ordered a bottle, which he split the cost of with me), I would have had chicken instead of shrimp, and I sure the heck would not have had dessert (which I only ordered because when the waitress brought the dessert tray by, John said, "I'm going to have that one. Which one do you want?"). Oh, and did I mention that the guy easily makes at least double what I make? Honestly....I don't understand this at all!

Needless to say..........I'm not sure about this guy. Who knows? Maybe he will not call me again and the problem will be solved............but if he does, well, I guess I gotta be honest and tell him the ex-girlfriend stuff bothered me and then use a line my friend, Gabbi, gave me....."I'm sorry John, but I really can't afford to go out with you." LOL

The point to this story.......I'm still looking for my Mr. Right! Crap, at this rate I would even take Mr. Okay.....or Mr. Half-Way-Decent! :-) Hook me people....I know you got some some single friends!

Blogging could be fun....

but the problem is I feel like the only people who read it are Becca & Keane! :-) And not that it's a problem, but I talk to Becca just about every day....about EVERYTHING......so the stuff I would/do post....she already nows!!!!!!! Okay, I think sometimes Souto reads it.....but no one else I know really has a blog and even though I tell everyone about my blog and that they should check it out.......they don't. Any suggestions? I guess I'm asking you Becca (or Keane) 'cuz ain't no one else out there listening to me! :-) LOL

"I need you..."

So you all know that I listen to country music....mostly all the time....this song has been out for awhile but for some reason it has become my new favorite song! I think that I love it so much 'cuz I want this....I want a relationship that is, I don't know....that is so strong, important, essential. Cheesy, I know, but true.

TAG (thanks Becca)

TAG Rules:

The rules of the game are posted at the beginning. Each player answers the questions about themselves. At the end of the post, the player then tags 4 people, and posts their names, then goes to their blogs and leaves them a comment, letting them know that they have been tagged, and asking them to read your blog.

1. 10 years ago I was........

In college at U of A in Tucson...but things were crazy and about this time of the year I was seriously considering moving back up to Mesa and going to ASU (I hadn't made up my mind yet...). College was a total blast though - we were parting all the time!!! I was going to most of my classes and doing most of my homework but my mind, energy, etc. was definitely not academically centered!!! I had a kick-ass schedule though - only had classes Tues, Wed, & Thurs, nothing on Monday or Friday. I still don't know how I did that!!!! I was working at the theater on campus in Tucson during the week and coaching speech and debate at Red Mountain High in Mesa on the weekends. I was dating 2 people...yep that's right, I said it....two (for my safety, they both shall remain nameless!). My sister Megan was getting ready to graduate and move away for college (CSUF - Go Titans!) and that was crazy!

2. 5 things on my "to do" list today

-get gas...immediately after work...if I make it to the gas station, that is!

-go to Target and get shampoo, a birthday card, and toliet paper

-grade, grade, grade, grade, grade, and then grade some more

-call the doctor (but this one has been on the list for awhile and I keep putting it off so.....)

-dinner with a friend (yay!!!)

3. Things I would do if I became a billionaire

-Come to work one last day to say bye to everyone!

-Pay off my debts, my sisters' debts, my parents debts, my friends debts...

-Give $$$ to a bunch of charities & my church

-Buy a house

-Buy a big 'ole truck and then pimp my ride!!!

-Rescue some puppies from AZ Boxer Rescue

-Waste some money on some frivolous things (Xbox, Wii, plasma TV, etc.)

-Put a work-out room in my new house...seriously!

-Go shopping for a crap-load of books to fill the library that would be in my new house

-Go to Europe...take a bunch of friends and family with me!

-Get a trainer

-Volunteer

-tons of stuff...what would you do?

4. 3 of my bad habits

-procrastination!!! Procrastination....PROCRASTINATION!!!!

-biting my finger nails and I hate that I do it!!! AUGH!!!!!

-watching TV instead of being productive!!!!

5. 5 places I've lived

-Laramie, Wyoming (although I was only a baby so i don't remember)

-Loveland, Colorado

-Mesa, Tucson, Gilbert, Chandler, Queen Creek, Flagstaff.....Arizona

6. 5 jobs I've had

-Teacher (Skyline High, Powell Junior, Mesa High...and ASU on the Saturdays)

-Worked at Blimpie's Subs in Flagstaff (the job was EASY, plus I worked nights and got to do a ton of my homework at work!)

-Worked at Borders Books & Music (best job 'cuz I love to read, worst job 'cuz I spent ALL my paycheck there....'cuz the discount is awesome!)

-Worked at Robinson's May in the Men's Fragrance department (it was a great job, but old men are often VERY creepy!!!)

-Worked as a "busboy"/hostess/waitress at all of the following: Village Inn, Coco's, IHOP, Red Lobster

7. Things most people don't know about me....

(um....this is hard 'cuz I'm very open and I'll tell you anything you want to know....so I'll list some stuff that people don't know or that people don't believe...)

-I really am afraid of lightening. Seriously...it scares the crap out of me...sometimes to the point of anxiety attacks, nervous breakdowns...whatever. I hate it! I will do ANYTHING to not have ot be alone during a thunder/lightening storm....so if one happens and you want to come be with me, I'll love you forever!

-I pray all the time. Often just little ones, but BIG ones in the morning, on the way to school, after school, before bed....

-I watch too much TV, that's true. But when I'm not watching TV, I'm listening to music. I love music...and although country is my favorite, if you tell me "hey, you should check out this song" I will totally listen to it! I often think that people come into my life to introduce me to some awesome songs....(examples: *Hailey Williams - Wicked soundtrack, *Melody Herne - "Hey Girl," "Can't Turn Back the Years", *Gabbi Monroy - "Everlong", *Becca Martin - indie music, but most importantly the Juno soundtrack, *Megan Berry - DMX, and lots more that I could list but I think you're probably tired of reading this!!!)

-I am a little superstitious. Knock on wood, cross my fingers, all that....

I tag Amber!!!

('cuz I don't have any other people to tag....I don't know anyone else's blog addresses!)

Lyrics & Life

You know how there is that question, “Does life imitate art or does art imitate life?” For me, I think the answer is usually that life imitates art. Do you ever listen to the radio or a CD or your Ipod and you think “This song is totally my life right now!” or “That is EXACTLY what I’m thinking/feeling.” And to me it’s kinda funny ‘cuz I could’ve heard the song 1,073 times and for some reason today, right now, the song totally hits home. And actually, it’s not even that the whole song applies….it usually is just part of the song – one verse or the chorus, ya know? Anyway…these thoughts have been kinda mind consuming for me lately so I thought I would just write a little and then just stick in some of the lyrics that have been hittin’ home lately.

“I can’t do the talk like they talk on the TV and I can’t do a love song, like the way it’s meant to be. I can’t do everything, but I’d do anything for you…I can’t do anything ‘cept be in love with you. And all I do is miss you and the way we used to be. All I do is keep the beat and bad company. All I do is kiss you through the bars of a rhyme. Julie I’d do the stars with you any time.”
-Dire Straits, Romeo and Juliet

“I've heard it said that people come into our lives for a reason, bringing something we must learn and we are led to those who help us most grow, if we let them and we help them in return. Well, I don't know if I believe that's true but I know I'm who I am today because I knew you...Like a comet pulled from orbit, as it passes a sun, like a stream that meets a boulder, halfway through the wood...Who can say if I've been changed for the better? But because I knew you I have been changed for good.”
-Wicked, the Musical, “For Good,” Kristin Chenowith

“If you could only see the love that you're wasting. I can love you better than that! I know how to make you forget her. All I'm asking is for one little chance 'cause baby, I can love you, baby, I can love you better. I'm gonna break the spell she's got on you. You're gonna wake up to find I'm your desire, my intentions are true .Hey babe, I know in time you're gonna see what you mean to me. So, open up your eyes 'cause seeing is believing - I can love you better than that.”
-Dixie Chicks, I Can Love You Better


“These fancy things will never come in between. You're part of my entity, here for infinity.When the war has took it's part,when the world has dealt it's cards, if the hand is hard together we'll mend your heart. Because when the sun shines, we'll shine together. Told you I'll be here forever. Said I'll always be your friend. Took an oath, I'mma stick it out 'till the end. Now that it's raining more than ever, know that we still have each other. You can stand under my umbrella.”
-Rihanna, Umbrella

“Suck it in suck it in suck it in if you're Rin Tin Tin or Anne Boleyn. Make a desperate move or else you'll win and then begin to see what you're doing to me. This MTV is not for free it's so PC it's killing me so desperately I sing to thee of love, sure, but also rage and hate and pain and fear of self. And I can't keep these feelings on the shelf - I've tried...well no, in fact I lied. Could be financial suicide but I've got too much pride inside to hide or slide. I'll do as I'll decide and let it ride till until I've died and only then shall I abide by this tide of catchy little tunes, of hip three minute ditties. I wanna bust all your balloons, I wanna burn of all your cities to the ground! But I've found I will not mess around unless I play then hey, I will go on all day! Hear what I say - I have a prayer to pray. That's really all this was and when I'm feeling stuck and need a buck I don't rely on luck because the hook brings you back. I ain't tellin' you no lie. The hook brings you back...on that you can rely.”
-Blues Traveler, Hook

I need to post

I know...I'm sooooooo behind in my posting...mostly 'cuz I'm lazy, but partly 'cuz I've been busy. The awesomest thing that I cannot wait to post about is that I just got a laptop!!! I'm sooooo excited! And I am seriously hoping that very soon the wireless issues that I'm having will be fixed and I'll be able to use my awesome new computer to get online! Okay - gotta get back to work, but I promise to post soon! Honest!

I know I watch too much TV......

Yep...I totally admit it! Too much TV (I blame TIVO). I also admit that I really enjoy reality shows...and for some unknown reason, right now I am in this weird funk...Discovery Channel is awesome!!! So I thought I would share my new top favorite shows with you! Yay!!!

The craziest show of my new addiction is Survivorman. If you haven't seen this show, or if you have watched one of the other survivor shows (Man v Wild, etc.), then you seriously have to check this out at least once. So this guy, Les (the Survivorman) goes out into the middle of nowhere (the Amazon, the Arizona desert, Canada in the middle of winter....) by himself with no food or and survives for 7 days. He literally is by himself - does all the filming by himself, builds a shelter, catches food (or not on some episodes), and tries to find his way back to 'civilization' by himself!!! It really is cool 'cuz lots of time he uses things that you could have with you in order to help him survive. I love this show 'cuz there is no way that I could ever survive like he does! It's crazy!!!!

So...It Takes a Thief...a great show that is these ex-robbers who are reformed and they go around robbing people's houses. The people give them permission to rob their house and the whole robbery is videotaped. The one guy (John) robs the house and the other guy (Matt) sits with the people and watches the robbery. The newer shows are better 'cuz they just tell the people, "we're gonna rob your house sometime this week" and then the people come home and their hosue has been 'robbed.' It's crazy 'cuz both usually the people go into the robbery thinking something like "no big deal" or "no way can they get into my house" or "my dog will totally protect the house" and then John gets in, robs them blind, and is usually gone from the house under 15 minutes. And it is amazing what people leave in their house - the show the other night, John got away with over $$2 million!!! Anyway, then the people get all their stuff back and the next day the show comes in and does these awesome security updates for the people's house! It's kinda a scary show 'cuz I don't want anyone to break into my house, but I literally cannot get enough of it!!!!!

And lastly...Dirty Jobs. So this guy, Mike, is absolutely out of his mind psycho!!! He travels all over and finds the most disgusting jobs...pig farming, bug breeder, kelp harvester, house mold cleaner....and then he does them!!! And some of the jobs are things that I have never even thought of as jobs...I mean seriously...who knew that there was a guy whose job it was to collect and study owl vomit? Or a buoy cleaner? A slime eel fisher? Seriously...not making this stuff up!!! Anyway...it's not just cool that Mike does it...it is crazy to me that there are people who do this stuff every day as their normal job! And then that these stinky, disgusting people go home to their families....I don't know but it is crazy to me!!!

My theme song

Last semester one of my teacher friends (Gabbi) did a cool assignment with her students...they had to pick a song that would be their theme song. So all these kids had to pick their song(there was more to the assignment, but that's all you need to know!). Even Gabbi picked one. And in searching for her song, we talked about several different songs...which led me to start thinking, "What would my theme song be?" And although there are several possibilites, I keep coming back to this one...

"The Long Way Around" by the Dixie Chicks



My friends from high school
Married their high school boyfriends
Moved into houses in the same ZIP codes
Where their parents live

But I, I could never follow
No I, I could never follow

I hit the highway in a pink RV with stars on the ceiling
Lived like a gypsy
Six strong hands on the steering wheel

I've been a long time gone now
Maybe someday, someday I'm gonna settle down
But I've always found my way somehow

By taking the long way
Taking the long way around
Taking the long way
Taking the long way around

I met the queen of whatever
Drank with the Irish and smoked with the hippies
Moved with the shakers
Wouldn't kiss all the asses that they told me to

No I, I could never follow
No I, I could never follow

It's been two long years now
Since the top of the world came crashing down
And I'm getting' it back on the road now

But I'm taking the long way
Taking the long way around
I'm taking the long way
Taking the long way around
The long way around

Well, I fought with a stranger and I met myself
I opened my mouth and I heard myself
It can get pretty lonely when you show yourself
Guess I could have made it easier on myself

But I, I could never follow
No I, I could never follow

Well, I never seem to do it like anybody else
Maybe someday, someday I'm gonna settle down
If you ever want to find me I can still be found

Taking the long way
Taking the long way around
Taking the long way
Taking the long way around

Random fun stuff....

Okay...these are lame...but seriously....kinda awesome at the same time! I started working on this post the other day...but I was having too much fun taking the stupid quizzes to get the post up.... hahahaha....

You Are 80% A Child of the 80s

Not only did you experience the 80s... you are practically an expert.You should be totally stoked!

http://www.blogthings.com/areyouachildofthe80squiz/">Are You a Child of an 80s?

You Are 62% Evil

You are very evil. And you're too evil to care.Those who love you probably also fear you. A lot.

http://www.blogthings.com/howevilareyouquiz/">How Evil Are You?

You Are Bettie Page

Girl next door with a wild streakYou're a famous beauty - with unique lookAnd the people like you are cultish about it

http://www.blogthings.com/whatfamouspinupareyouquiz/">What Famous Pinup Are You?div>

You Are a Yellow Crayon

Your world is colored with happy, warm, fun colors.You have a thoughtful and wise way about you. Some people might even consider you a genius.Charming and eloquent, you are able to get people to do things your way.While you seem spontaneous and free wheeling, you are calculating to the extreme. Your color wheel opposite is purple. You both are charismatic leaders, but purple people act like you have no depth.

http://www.blogthings.com/whatcolorcrayonareyouquiz/">What Color Crayon Are You?

You Are an Angel

A truly giving soul, you understand the spirit of Christmas.

http://www.blogthings.com/whatchristmasornamentareyouquiz/">What Christmas Ornament Are You?

You Are 28% Nerdy

You're a little nerdy, but no one would ever call you a nerd.You sometimes get into nerdy things, but only after they've become a part of mainstream culture.

http://www.blogthings.com/hownerdyareyouquiz/">How Nerdy Are You?

the lunch crew

My job is awesome...seriously...90% of the time I really and truly love my job.

But the one thing that is so amazingly awesome is lunch! I love our lunch gang! The Swigtown Swiggers are so funny! And yeah, I totally admit that we are elitist...not everyone is invited to our Secret Room for lunch! Every day I cannot wait to see what is going to happen and when the bell rings to go back to class...well...it sucks! I wish we had videos of some of the craziness that happens 'cuz I know that most people would not believe the stories...

some reasons why i love lunch:
First -between Gabbi, Becca, and Cooper...some one is always in comedian mood...actually, they usually are all funny so it is like Saturday Night Live + MAD TV + America's Funniest Videos all rolled into one...it's awesome!

Second - we always have stories to tell. Marta tells awesome stories (plus she's known Cooper forever so she tells stories about him...awesome for us...not so awesome for him!)...Becca's stories usually involve vomit...and Cooper likes to just make stories up!

Third - Crazy things happen...Jello fights, people fall out of chairs, things get thrown all the time, random people have keys and just come into our secret room!

I promise to work on getting some pics up...but for now, all you need to know is that I love lunch! Thanks to Becca, Cooper, Gabbi, and Marta for making lunch one of the best parts of my day!!! YAY!

Diet Mountain Dew tastes like.........

It seems that lately tons of people feel the need to fill me in on health facts...seriously...not just one or two people...lots of people! They are telling me all about calories and proteins and giving me advice like "drink diet soda...it's better for you!"

But here is the deal...seriously folks, I'm not dumb. I'm not stupid. I'm not retarded. I know for a fact that soda is not good for me! I know that soda has trillions of calories, sugar, sodium....things that normally should not be ingested....I know that!!! And I freely admit to the fact that I am addicted to caffeine!!! It's a problem...I know!

And before I go any further, let me say - I know people love me and want the best for me....really...(so don't be offended if you read this blog and think I'm talking about you!!! Seriously...I love you too!!!)

So because I know all of this.......it bugs when people say I shouldn't drink soda! People - I know I'm overweight (yep, I said it!). I know that I should stop eating at Taco Bell and I should always have breakfast and I should exercise more.....I know all those things! So when people tell me "drink diet" or "stop at one cookie" or "that bucket of chicken has lots of fat" ......... um.... well, it makes me not only want to punch someone, but it seriously makes me want to eat more!

The point to this rambling.....DIET MOUNTAIN DEW TASTES LIKE CRAP.

Okay...here we go....

So...this is my first actual blog posting. Becca got me going on this....she has an amazing blog and I'm jealous and worried that my blog will not be as good as hers. Let's be honest!

Okay - so Becca and Amber both say I should just talk about whatever I want to talk about...Amber even said that I have lots to say so....

Right now we are watching American Idol. I like this show, I really do. I think people who have talent are amazing and all these people who can really sing - it's awesome! I do feel bad during the first few episodes though 'cuz of the people who really think they can sing and then Paula, Simon, and Randy make fun of them...sometimes I think the people are seriously retarded and just don't know better! I really like the show when it gets further along though...then I get excited! I am even one of those lame people who call and vote!!! That's right...I do! And I'm not afraid to admit it!

Oh...so since I am using Becca's computer and now we are done watching American Idol I think it's time for bed!